An anonymous reader writes: The BBC reports that the SABRE hybrid (part air-breathing jet, part rocket) that are intended to power the Skylon single-stage-to-orbit space plane has passed its final technical demonstrator test, and is now looking for money (only £250m!) to prepare for manufacturing.

If this goes ahead, travel into orbit from local airports (ideally, those close to the equator) will be possible. And quite cheaply. But it might have the same legal difficulties flying from US airports as the Concorde did...?Link to Original Source